Interviews

“Women in Arakan State face far greater insecurities than men. These numerous challenges make it harder for women to participate and lead in various sectors. In politics, women rarely hold leadership roles. The United League of Arakan (ULA) should establish policies and take concrete actions to strengthen women’s leadership.” – A man advocating for gender equality

“…we oppose this law for three reasons: first, it’s not conducive to mobilization; second, it violates people’s right to freedom of choice; and third, it follows the military’s mindset of “if you’re not with me, you’re my enemy.” That’s why we are opposing the CRPH’s law.” – Ma Khin Ni, Information Committee/ ABFSU

“Although this was the first time female comrades fought in an offensive on a junta position, women have also participated in other guerrilla-style battles. But this was a bigger battle, and more women participated in it. In previous battles, many women served in medical units and were on the very front lines, pulling back wounded comrades.” – Comrade Ni Ni Kyaw, General Secretary of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA)

“The most vulnerable groups are facing serious difficulties. The local defense forces are distributing aid. Along the main road from Kanma to Pauk, particularly the Pakokku–Kanma–Pauk highway route, villagers have fled their homes. The people from 18 villages including Hta Naung and Man Kyi Thone Pin have fled. There are around 20,000 IDPs.” Local IDP aid worker

“The council members will fully take responsibility and accountability according to their respective sectors, carrying out their tasks effectively. They will regularly coordinate with the relevant village administrators, and ensure consistent communication both upward and downward in the hierarchy. When these processes are properly followed, it will create a more efficient and well-functioning administrative system.” Khun Jame (aka) Nay Min Lwin – Advisor to the Phon Baw Khut Township Administrative Council

“On the junta’s side, arbitrary arrests and killings are still ongoing as usual. In Tanintharyi, on average, around 10 civilians are arrested and killed each month. Most of these deaths, given the current situation, are from artillery shelling or artillery explosions.” – Ko Zaw, Editor at FE5 Thanintharyi

“Our goal is to ensure that students don’t have to pay for school fee and books— everything is meant to be completely free. What we’re working toward is building a community-based education budget, formed and managed by the community itself. With that, we form a school council made up of young local teachers and community members to run the school.” Ko Min Zaw Oo – Public mobilization officer of DDMSC Public Mobilization Subcommittee

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